Introduction

The Powertap G3 power metering hub has been reviewed by Tristan Haskins for Power-Pedals.com. For ease of installation and value for money it’s hard to beat the crank based power meters from 4iiii, Stages etc.

However, if you want something a power meter that really is measuring your TOTAL power output (and not just doubling the LEFT leg) then the Powertap G3 Hub could be what you’ve been looking for. The G3 Power Hub was introduced way back in 2005 and it has continued to grow in popularity and accuracy since then. Available for Shimano, Campagnolo and SRAM in a variety of spoke options from 20 to 32 spokes ….

Product Summary

The PowerTtap G3 has been designed to provide power metering in a straight-forward way. The strain gauges have been mounted in an area where external forces cannot impact power measurement. This means the G3 provides a total power figure with an accuracy of +/- 1.5%, ride after ride. But it doesn’t stop there, because the G3 is mounted inside the wheel it delivers speed & cadence feedback as well as pin-point accurate power metering. Switching the Powertap G3 is …. well it’s a simple as changing your back wheel (assuming same gear / derailleur set up)

The Powertap G3, like all other Powertap products, transmits your total power, speed and cadence data in BOTH Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+. These G3 Hub power meter is available for Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo geared systems.

I read the Powertap website intro when researching the G3 and feel I have to quote this line describing their product ….

“The bottom line is our shit just works, day after day, year after year. If it didn’t, well then we would never been able to sell more power meters than anyone else in the history of cycling power meters. End of story“

Pros

Accuracy +/- 1.5%

Absolute Total Power (not single leg doubled)

Robust design keeps sensitive electronics away from damage

First released in 2005 - one of the most popular power meters worldwide

Cons

Requires wheel rebuild to fit - or have it fitted to NEW wheel set

Who are they for?

The Powertap G3 Hub power meter is for cyclists of all levels looking for a reasonably priced, accurate and robust power metering solution. It does NOT provide power balance, just TOTAL power, speed and cadence (when paired with a suitable head unit). The G3 is a great system for someone who trains on either rollers or a turbo trainer too. Because they have built-in sensors for speed & cadence (as well as power) you can forget about ugly cable ties, magnets and other external sensors.

Method of Installation

How easy is it to install the Powertap G3 Hub? I give the same answer for all power meters, it depends on who’s installing it. For me, this simply wouldn’t happen.

I don’t have the skill or tools to remove a rear cassette so forget re-building a wheel.

Remember, the G3 is a rear wheel hub system. It will replace your existing hub if you’re adding it to a pair of wheel you already own. If you are buying some NEW wheels, that’s a great time to consider having them built around the Powertap G3.

If you want to add the G3 to your favourite rims then I’d suggest asking your local bike shop what they’d charge. Buy it from them and see if you can do a deal to get it fitted for £45/$60.

Tools Required to fit this Power Meter

I’m not even going to bother to try …. ask your local bike shop

Alternative Power Meters

The Powertap G3 is quite a unique power metering solution. It’s a proven design that’s been with us since 2005 – this is now the third generation of engineering design.

It’s robust, internal design means it’s great for mountain bikes, as well as road racing / tourers, as it’s safely tucked away from potential damage. The closest alternative on a COST basis is one of the super easy to fit power meter cranks.

However, there’s nothing for this price that gives absolute total power, speed and cadence for under £500 / $600. If you want something that can be fitted with no specialist skills or tools, is under £400 / $500 and you’re happy to live with

Left side only power (doubled for estimated total) …. consider the 4iiii Precision crank with built-in cadence sensor.

Photo Gallery

External Videos

Powertap G3 Cap Removal and Firmware Update

This video looks at how to take the powercap off your Powertap G3 hub to change a battery or to update the firmware

How to replace batteries in a Powertap G3 Hub

If you need to replace your battery on your Saris Cycleops Powertap G3 hub, you are in luck. Follow along as Szady walks you through the process. It is quick and easy but it is nice to see how it works before you dive in. Before you get started don’t forget to pick up a CR2032 battery to complete the task. Replacement is easy and only takes a few minutes

External Resources

The purpose of Power-Pedals.com product presentations is to give the visitor a summary overview of each power meter. They are NOT intended as an in-depth technical review, more a summary providing essential top level features, functions, pros and cons. Further information can be found at these links to other external reference sites.